"Exercises" - The Sport of Mountain Biking
What's the difference of a mountain bike vs downhill bike vs road bike vs hybrid bike? They all seem alike!
Well, the definition of Mountain biking or (Mountain bicycling) is a form of off-road cycling which uses very sturdy bicycles (the mountain bike or cross-country bike) with (usually) straight handlebars and wide tires. In plain English, it's one great exercise which requires a lot of technical skills, endurance, and of course guts!
Mountain biking can really test your skills on how well you can maneuver a bicycle. Some typical obstacles you may encounter are drops, rock gardens, mud, single lane trails, and logs. Other term for a drop is more of ledge which can range from 1' up to 50' for more of the professionals. Rock gardens are just areas of purely rocks which can make for slippery conditions when it is wet but make use for hopping your bike. Mud is always fun but make sure you have built enough speed or you'll end up putting your foot in it! Single trails test how well you can ride on a small path yet making sure your handle bars don't get caught on a tree. Other fun uses of single trails are creating a roller coaster like trail using 2x4 wood planks to ride on. Last are logs or pile of logs to ride over. One thing never to forget to do is to keep pedaling when going over them or it might result in getting stuck.
While working on the technical skills, your endurance tends to be less noticed because your mind is busy thinking so you don't really think about the cardiovascular workout you're getting. Other mountain biking benefits is a strengthening exercise for the lower body that doesn't stress joints, has made it one of the fastest growing sports.
And of course, best of all is the thrill. There's no better adreniline rush than flying down a steep hill going over rocks, logs, and drops.
A couple of hints if you go riding in the mountains for the first time:
1. Spray OFF for bugs. There's nothing worse than trying to out run bugs!
2. Never go biking alone! You never know if you might fall.
3. Always wear a helmet. (It's a law for certain ages)
4. Expect to get dirty while riding so wear a breathable shirt and old shoes.
5. Bring water and some protein bars. Some things I recommend is (Herbalife LiftOff Drink for a boost of energy along with some Herbalife Protein Snacks)
6. Have a great time and a great workout the exciting way!
